Outdoor Surprises

August 1, 2013

Gr 1-3-This easy reader features an energetic amphibian, his numerous woodland companions, and their adventures in the great big world. In the first story, Frog's lighthearted side shines when a sore throat prevents him from singing and he shares jokes instead of joining the choir. The second tale highlights Frog's uncanny knack for volunteering Squirrel for a particularly dangerous assignment when a baby bird's nest falls from its tree. In the last selection, a spooky ghost tale, the critters are nervous when a towering shadow appears. Dynamic illustrations, largely in blue and green, break up the text, and the characters' animated expressions reinforce the action. Succinct dialogue provides some details of the characters' personalities. For example, "'Humph!' Squirrel said. 'I will try to not drop the nest. And I will try to not drop me.'" Overall, a sweet, fairly satisfying addition.-Meg Smith, Cumberland County Public Library, Fayetteville, NC

Copyright 2013 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

January 1, 2014
In Outdoor, Frog's jokes are the hit of the pond concert, he helps Squirrel save a baby bird, and he soothes his friends' fears after a scary story. In Saves, the animals discover the source of a loud noise and Frog rescues a baby possum from the river. Colorful illustrations of the charming pond critters are well placed within the easy-to-read vignettes.

(Copyright 2014 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)